Avian Incubation

Behaviour, Environment, and Evolution

Edited by D. C. Deeming

Description

This is the first scientific review of all factors affecting incubation in avian nests. These range from nest construction, egg characteristics and patterns of embryonic development. There is an extensive section describing incubation behaviour of parents and embryos, and there are chapters reviewing brood patch physiology and the various factors determining the incubation environment, including nest microbiology. Another section provides chapters giving detailed descriptions of examples of unusual aspects of avian incubation, whilst the final section provides consideration of the ecological, energetic and fitness cost of incubation. Written by authorities in their respective fields from around the world, this provides a comprehensive review of this critical aspect
of avian reproduction. Much of the data included has not been previously published, and so Avian Incubation is not only an extensive reference text but is also a valuable contribution to our basic understanding of incubation.

Avian Incubation

Behaviour, Environment, and Evolution

Edited by D. C. Deeming

Author Information

Deeming is an embryologist of 20 years, with his main expertise in egg turning in birds establishes during his Doctorate research at the University of Reading. He has also studied the development of alligators at the University of Manchester, as well as ostrich incubation, rearing, and behaviour. He is presently working as a consultant to poultry and game hatcheries and as an advisor to zoo and conservation organisations.

Avian Incubation

Behaviour, Environment, and Evolution

Edited by D. C. Deeming

Reviews and Awards

"Providing a comprehensive review, and including much data that has not been previously published, 22 contributions discuss varous aspects of incubation including the functional characteristics of eggs, patterns of embryonic development, parent-embryo interactions, factors affecting the behavior of incubating birds, the diversity of nesting environments, and ecological and evolutionary aspects. The contributions are from more than a score of experts from around the world and include several by editor Deeming, who conducts a hatchery consulting business in the UK, and whose particular interest in the effects of egg turning upon incubation led to the development of this book."--SciTech Book News